Audio description is a verbal commentary that tells visually impaired
theatre-goers what is happening on the stage during the parts of the
performance where there is no dialogue (i.e. during fight scenes). The
description does not interfere with the performance but fills in the gaps,
describing facial expressions, costume, scenery and action sequences so
that anyone with a sight problem can follow the plot fully and
independently. Many visually impaired theatre-goers are enthusiastic
about audio description.

How does audio description work?

The trained describer sits in a soundproof booth or box in the theatre
and explains what is happening on the stage. Usually, the describer has
seen the performance three or four times before and is well prepared to
describe the performance. Visually impaired theatre-goers are equipped
with a headset or earpiece before the performance and the description
is relayed from the booth to the headset/ear-piece via an infrared or
radio sound system.

Can theatre-goers sit in any seat in the theatre?

No, specific seats are allocated in the theatre, mostly in the Stalls or
Dress Circle, so there is clear transmission between the describer and
the headsets.